Guide to Enable ADB and Fastboot on ChromeOS

ADB and fastboot are both incredibly handy and easy-to-use options for manipulating your device, and we’ve mentioned both here on the Portal on several occasions. Whether you’re using Windows, Linux, or OSX, it’s generally not too difficult to get either of these set up and begin tinkering with your device. One thing I hadn’t previously seen though, until now that is, was how to set up ADB and fastboot on Google’s increasingly popular Chrome OS or its open source sibling, Chromium OS.

Once regarded by some as little more than a web browser in a box, Chrome OS and the ChromeBooks that ship with it are becoming increasingly popular. Thus, many people now seem quite content to replace their larger more capable notebooks with these highly portable and affordable devices. The downside to that of course is that a slimmed down operating system means less flexibility and features. For those of you who cannot go twenty minutes without messing about with a mobile device, this might make ChromeOS seem like a little bit more viable on-the-go option.

XDA Recognized Contributor Quinny899 has written a guide covering the steps required to enable ADB and fastboot commands on Chrome and Cromium OS. There aren’t many steps and the process is fairly simple. After downloading the appropriate files and entering a few terminal commands, you should be good to go. You’ll need a ChromeBook (or something running Chrome/Chromium) and a little Linux knowledge or the ability to copy and paste terminal commands. A little knowledge sure does come in handy, though, if and when things don’t always go to plan. You’re also advised to have a hot beverage of your choice on hand while those files download.

If you’re running Chrome or Chromium OS and would like to try this for yourself, check out the tutorial thread for more information.

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